Savvy Ways to Spend Less at Christmas & Give Real Presents

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The word Christmas and gift giving go hand in hand.

The reoccurring question for many shoppers, “Are there ways to spend less at Christmas?”

For some families, Christmas means inundation of presents. For others, it is simply a time to get together and spend quality time together. Others, it is the longing to give presents, but lack of money to spend.

Regardless of where you fall along the spectrum, buying presents tends to be a part of Christmas.

The average American spends about $800 on Christmas each year. If that isn't you for whatever reason, then you are wondering how to spend less at Christmas.

2. Shop Local

You can pick up unique items for those special people on your list. There are many ways to save money when shopping local.

Plus it is a great opportunity to help local small business owners.

Look for coupons in mailers, check their online website, or even find small business that have bundled a gift together.

If you are looking for a personalized gift, shop Etsy. This is another small business owner – just with an online presence. Also, many items are less than the mass produced version plus they are personalized.

3. Use Deal Sites

This is simply the easiest way to save money – not just on gifts, but entertainment and eating out.

All gifts are at least 50% of the retail price.

You can easily gift them through email. You save money. They get to try a new restaurant or activity. It is a win-win!

The first thought is…Oh, I don't want them to know I didn't pay full price on their gift. Throw that thought out the window. They will view you as a savvy shopper. Plus you probably can spend more than you planned on.

Here is an example: You were planning to spend $25 on Aunt Susie. You have two options. First option, you can buy one deal for $12 that is worth $25. Second option, you can buy one or two deals spending $25 that are worth $50. Pretty savvy, right?!?! My favorite deal site to find presents… Groupon.

Another great option is to check into an Entertainment Book. They are full of coupons for all sorts of restaurants, retailers, and activities. Plus the price can't be beat!

4. Give the Gift of Time

Personally, this is one of my favorite gifts!!

Spending quality time with my family and friends. (Hint: no phones allowed.)

You can make it completely free or you can spend money on an activity together using a deal found in #3 above. Also, you create long-lasting memories together.

Some ideas…You can spend the day at the new park and pack a lunch, the evening painting a project together, or spend the day volunteering at a shelter. Be creative!

5. Amazon's Deals & Own Brands

Shopping at Amazon can be tricky. However, if you are armed with savvy knowledge, then you can actually save money on Amazon.

There are many ways money saving tricks on Amazon. Many people have heard of Lightning Deals with Amazon, but have you heard of Amazon Outlet? Did you even know that existed?!?!? What about all of Amazon's own brands? This is online shopping and saving money combined into one.

Lightning Deals

With Lightning Deals, you have the chance to purchase an item at a discounted price for a limited amount of time. Thus the “lightning” concept, you have to move quickly. Check the latest lightning deals here.

Early Black Friday Deals

So much hype is put into Black Friday! But, retailers have gotten smart. Typically, the best deals are not found the day after Thanksgiving anymore. This isn't 100% the case. But, more deals are happening earlier as well as for the last minute shoppers. Check out Amazon's Black Friday Deals here.

Amazon Outlet

At the Amazon Outlet, you will find low prices on markdowns, clearance items, overstocks, and more!! The savings vary per department, but you can score some great deals. For the most current items in the Amazon Outlet, go here.

This is probably the biggest secret of Amazon – their own clothing line called Amazon Essentials! At first, I was hesitant because the prices are 50-75% less than other retailers. However, my hubby found this and we couldn't pass up the savings. (Just FYI…The quality is great and has held up for a fraction of the price.)

I first learned about the Amazon Basic items when I purchased this (and it works so much better than any other knockoff brand). You can find batteries, cable cords, camera accessories, laminators, safes, office chairs, and so much more. While most of these items aren't gift giving, knowledge is power here on saving money on the household basics.

Bonus Tip:

Think about what you are planning to buy for your family in the upcoming year. It could be sports gear, trip related items, clothing, art supplies, the list could go on and on…

For instance, we needed to get camping gear for our kids specifically air mattresses and Camelbaks. Since I was already planning to spend the money, we decided to give it to them early as a Christmas present. And they loved it plus they still talk about that Christmas.

Simple way to spend less on Christmas gifts.

This simple money saving tip is helping to save money across multiple areas of your budget. What can you buy today as a gift that will need to bought in the future anyways.

Plenty of great tips and ideas to spend less on Christmas and give real presents. That is how to spend less at Christmas as a savvy shopper.

The joy of Christmas is in the giving of presents. Not spending more than you planned and regret it.

In conclusion, there are ways to give amazing presents without breaking the bank. Let the holiday spending stay during the holiday and not carry over into January.

Comment below on which savvy way you plan to implement at Christmas and what savvy presents you are giving this year.

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Kristy is the founder of Money Bliss. She has a passion to help others – specifically anyone who deals with money. As a wife and mom, Kristy understands the daily struggles with money and joys of life with kids! Read More…